We have days of the year dedicated to everything. From special occasions to national holidays and those dedicated to specific events of historical significance. But did you know that the world’s uniquely crowd-pleasing, impressible delectable, and most interesting crustacean, the lobster, has its very own National Day?
That’s right! Your favorite buttery-sweet seafood has an entire day on the calendar each year dedicated to this interesting crustacean, practically begging for celebration. This guide will take you through the history of National Lobster Day, uncover interesting facts about your favorite shelled seafood, and provide you with fun, creative and exciting things you can do to celebrate this day.
Let’s dive in!
What is National Lobster Day?
Held on September 25th each year, this holiday celebrates what was once considered “trash” food fed to prisoners. You read that right. Once upon a time ago, lobster was NOT considered the savory delicacy it is celebrated as today.
National Lobster Day was established not only to celebrate this funky looking crustacean but to celebrate and recognize the men and women who work in the industry, as well as the rich and storied history of the lobster’s ‘rags to riches’ heritage.
Fun Facts About Lobsters
Did you know that lobsters (the ones that don’t get caught and end up in a stove pot) can live for up to 100 years?!
Other Fun Facts:
- In Colonial times lobster wasn’t so glamorous and was often fed to livestock such as goats and pigs
- In the ocean, lobsters aren’t typically red. Rather they come in a wide range of colors from blue, to yellow and green, turning red only after being cooked.
- Historically, lobster was once fed to prisoners in New England due to their perceived low value and the generous lobster population at the time
- On a “no carb” or “low carb” diet? You’ll be excited to know that lobster tails contain zero carbohydrates and pack a whopping 27.55 grams of protein per cup
- Lobster is a great source of omega-3 healthy fatty acids, calcium, vitamin A and selenium
History of National Lobster Day
Originally, National Lobster day was set as June 15th, however, the origin of this date remained in mystery, even to co-founder Marlo Anderson.
In 2015, Senator Angus King and Susan Collins of Maine co-sponsored a bill that changed the date from its original June 15th designation to September 25th. However, an interesting fact is that the bill has not officially passed, meaning that each year a new resolution needs to be renewed to proclaim the new Sept. 25th date as the day of observance.
The good news is that lobster fans technically now get TWO DAYS to celebrate these scrumptious crustaceans.
How can You Celebrate National Lobster Day?
1. Pack up the Bags and Hit the Road!
Have you ever wanted to visit Maine? National Lobster Day is a quirky excuse to give the state a visit and celebrate the holiday in its home state. While there, don’t forget to check out the Maine Lobster Museum in Bar Harbor. Of course, while you’re there, you’ll be inundated with deals and specials on the course of the occasion, enabling you to take delight in the freshest lobster in the world.
2. Have a Lobster Extravaganza of Your Own
Although Lobster might seem like an intimidating dish, YouTube and the internet is full to the brim with easy, step-by-step recipes that even the most novice chef could tackle with ease.
Consider a lobster-themed meal, including a range of interesting options.
Need Some Ideas to Get Started?
- Lobster Bisque
- Lobster Salad
- Lobster Risotto
- Lobster Roll
- Lobster and Mac & Cheese
- A Cobb Salad
- And so much more!
Need more ideas or the perfect place to order high quality, right out of the ocean-fresh, lobster? Check out the Maine Lobster Specials at Lobster Anywhere. Since 1999 they have been dedicated their business to making fresh lobster readily available and accessible to everyone.
3. Go Out and Feast at a Seafood Restaurant
Most seafood restaurants offer a myriad of specials and interesting dishes to celebrate this day. Feast on sweet, succulent lobster and satisfy your hunger…all without having to lift a finger. But don’t forget to call ahead. This day is a notoriously busy one for seafood restaurants from fine dining establishments to chains like Red Lobster. Placing a reservation and/or calling ahead ensures you’ll be seated without the extended waiting time.
4. Throw a Lobster-Themed Party or Event
National Lobster Day is a perfect occasion to get together with your friends and/or family for a fun event you’ll all remember. Don’t be afraid to get creative. Sites such as Pinterest and others have some really interesting ideas on how you can decorate, and of course, lobster should be the main dish when its time to feast.
Have kids that need entertaining or want to get quirky? Consider renting or buying a lobster costume to top things off and give your guests something they’ll never forget.
Are you ready for the Big Day this year?
With a little preparation and ingenuity, you too can find creative ways to enjoy National Lobster Day. Follow the tips in this guide to get the ideas flowing and celebrate this delectable crustacean and the people who work hard day in and day out to make sure we always have a fresh supply of the ocean’s sweetest delicacy.
